Local bookstore creates bridge with University

Bob and Lisa Martire searched for something to bring joy during their time of hardship after a life-changing car accident ended Bob’s 28-year career in dentistry.

The couple found their way to Main Street in Conway, South Carolina, where they opened the city’s newest bookstore “Our Next Chapter” in 2023, hoping to bring some joy to their dark days. As the couple neared retirement, they dreamed of opening a knickknack store, but with so many in the area their focus shifted to the idea of a bookstore instead.

The Martires found that after COVID-19, people wanted a place to meet-and bookstores were a great place where individuals could connect over something as simple as looking at the same book.

This community focused mindset led to the creation of four independently-run book clubs that meet in the “book nook” area of the store, and a newly created writers workshop led by the owners’ daughter, Michelle.

After having a successful first year in business, the Martires began thinking of ways to give back to the community.

The bookstore now offers a 10% discount to Coastal Carolina University students, teachers and veterans.

“We wanted to do something to give back a little of what they have given to us, so we thought would be a great place to start,” Lisa said.

Their dedication to the community extends far beyond discounts as they host numerous local author signings a month and have over 60 books written by local authors on their shelves.

CCU President Michael Benson was one of the first to be featured, hosting a book signing event for his novel, “Daniel Coit Gilman and the Birth of the American Research University” on Nov. 10, 2023.

Lisa, with a background in middle school education, never imagined that she would be creating business plans, requesting loans or building a bookstore from the ground up, but that’s just what she did.

“We spent the whole summer of 2023, which was the first official summer that we spent together in all our married life, figuring out how we were going to get bookshelves and how we were going to get books. I had so many sleepless nights wondering about bookshelves, but it’s been such a blessing,” she said.

With support from Conway’s Downtown Alive, the bookstore participates in local events, such as the Rivertown Wine Around event, free of charge, increasing their involvement with the surrounding community and driving foot traffic.

“I absolutely love having a real bookstore in our town. Bob and Lisa are so welcoming and friendly. If they don’t have it, they’ll get it for you. Always helpful and knowledgeable. I especially love the calm vibe and cozy reading nook in the back. Go see them! They are a real asset and treasure for Conway,” Rachel Roberts said in a Google review.